Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing, browsing, or using ThePetSitter's website, mobile application, or services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.

These terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you and ThePetSitter. You must be at least 18 years old to use our services.

2. Description of Service

ThePetSitter is an online marketplace platform that connects pet owners with qualified pet care providers. Our services include:

• Pet Sitting: In-home pet care while owners are away
• Dog Walking: Daily exercise and companionship for dogs
• At-Home Visits: Check-ins, feeding, and basic care
• Boarding Overnight: Overnight pet care at the sitter's location
• Additional Services: Pet grooming, training, and specialized care

Platform Role: ThePetSitter acts as an intermediary platform. We do not directly provide pet care services but facilitate connections between pet owners and independent pet care providers.

3. User Accounts and Registration

Account Creation

• You must provide accurate, current, and complete information during registration
• You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials
• You must notify us immediately of any unauthorized use of your account
• One person may not maintain multiple accounts

Account Verification

Pet sitters must complete our verification process, including background checks, identity verification, and insurance validation before providing services through our platform.

4. User Responsibilities and Conduct

Pet Owners:

• Pet Information: Provide accurate, complete information about your pets including health conditions, behavioral issues, and special needs
• Health Requirements: Ensure pets are healthy, up-to-date on required vaccinations, and not ill during service periods
• Communication: Provide clear care instructions, emergency contacts, and veterinary information
• Property Access: Provide secure access to your property and any necessary keys or codes
• Payment: Pay all fees according to agreed terms and platform policies
• Respect: Treat pet sitters with respect and professionalism

Pet Sitters:

• Qualifications: Maintain current background checks, insurance, and any required certifications
• Service Quality: Provide safe, reliable, and professional pet care services
• Communication: Maintain regular communication with pet owners and provide updates as requested
• Care Instructions: Follow all care instructions provided by pet owners
• Emergency Response: Have emergency protocols in place and contact owners or veterinarians when necessary
• Property Respect: Treat pet owners' homes and property with care and respect
• Availability: Honor scheduled commitments and provide adequate notice for cancellations

Prohibited Activities

All users are prohibited from:

• Providing false or misleading information
• Using the platform for illegal activities
• Harassing, threatening, or discriminating against other users
• Attempting to circumvent our fee structure
• Using another person's account or sharing login credentials
• Posting inappropriate content or using offensive language
• Attempting to damage or interfere with the platform's functionality

5. Booking and Cancellation Policies

Booking Process

• All bookings must be made through our platform
• Services are subject to sitter availability and acceptance
• Payment is processed securely through our platform
• Bookings are confirmed only after payment authorization

Cancellation Policy

• Pet Owner Cancellations: Cancellations made more than 48 hours before service receive full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours may incur fees.
• Pet Sitter Cancellations: Sitters must provide at least 48 hours notice. Emergency cancellations require immediate notification.
• Emergency Situations: Medical emergencies or safety concerns may override standard cancellation policies.

6. Payment Terms and Fees

Platform Fees

• Service Fee: ThePetSitter charges a 12% service fee on all bookings
• Payment Processing: Additional payment processing fees may apply
• No Commission: We do not charge pet sitters commission on their earnings

Payment Processing

• All payments are processed through secure third-party payment processors
• Payment is authorized at booking and charged upon service completion
• Refunds are processed according to our cancellation policy
• Disputed charges are handled through our resolution process

7. Safety, Insurance, and Liability

Safety Measures

• All pet sitters undergo background checks and verification
• We provide safety guidelines and best practices to all users
• 24/7 customer support is available for emergencies
• Users can report safety concerns through our platform

Insurance Coverage

ThePetSitter maintains general liability insurance that may cover certain incidents occurring during booked services. However, this insurance is supplemental and may not cover all situations. Pet owners and sitters are encouraged to maintain their own insurance coverage.

Limitation of Liability

IMPORTANT: Pet care involves inherent risks. While we implement safety measures and maintain insurance coverage, ThePetSitter's liability is limited to the maximum extent permitted by law. Users acknowledge that they use our services at their own risk and discretion.

8. Dispute Resolution

We encourage users to resolve disputes directly when possible. For unresolved issues:

• Contact our customer support team within 48 hours of the incident
• Provide documentation and evidence to support your claim
• Participate in good faith in our mediation process
• Serious disputes may be resolved through binding arbitration

9. Intellectual Property

ThePetSitter and its content, features, and functionality are owned by ThePetSitter and are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. Users may not copy, modify, distribute, or create derivative works from our platform without express written permission.

10. Privacy and Data Protection

Your privacy is important to us. Our Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information. By using our services, you consent to our data practices as described in our Privacy Policy.

11. Platform Modifications

We reserve the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue our services at any time. We will provide reasonable notice of significant changes when possible, but may make immediate changes for security, legal, or operational reasons.

12. Account Termination

We may terminate or suspend accounts for:

• Violation of these Terms of Service
• Fraudulent or illegal activity
• Safety concerns or threats to other users
• Extended periods of inactivity
• Non-payment of fees

Users may terminate their accounts at any time through their account settings or by contacting support.

13. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms of Service periodically to reflect changes in our services, legal requirements, or business practices. We will notify users of significant changes via email or platform notifications. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

14. Governing Law

These Terms of Service are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [Your Jurisdiction]. Any disputes arising from these terms or your use of our services will be resolved in the courts of [Your Jurisdiction].

15. Contact Information

For questions, concerns, or support regarding these Terms of Service, please contact us:

16. Severability

If any provision of these Terms of Service is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.